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Mask, fin, snorkel, bootie sets Maybe you're about to do a dive course (with us we hope) or maybe you are upgrading your existing set. Which ever there are a bewildering selection of colours, sizes and styles so we have a few helpful hints. MASKS: Masks come in different materials. Rubber which if looked after will last well but rot over a period of time, clear silicon which lets in light giving a more open feel, plus will last for many years and black silicon which is dark like rubber but with the lasting properties of clear silicon The right fit is the most important feature of a mask, as a mask that does not fit will either be uncomfortable or leak or both. To check the fit of a mask hold the mask lightly against your face and breath in though your nose. The mask should suck on. If it does leak check for hair stuck under the 'skirt' and check each side of the eyes (a mirror comes in handy). A mask that is too wide will leave a gap and leak, one that cuts in to close to your eyes will become annoying or even painful during the dive. Some masks also have drainage purge valves in front to drain out water. These are usually more hassle than help except for divers with facial hair (antisealant as it's known). FINS: A basic rule of thumb the bigger you are or the faster you want to go the more powerful the pair of fins you will need. You can run into problems if your fins are not powerful enough. First, if caught in a current and your fins are under powered you may find it extremely difficult returning to the boat or shore. Also if a pair of fins are too small the diver must greatly increase the number of kicks to stay up with their buddies with a corresponding increase in air consumption. A pair of fins that are too large will give the wearer cramps or fit too loosely and flop around. Last but not least the foot pocket should fit snugly with no large gaps but at the same time not too tight. Remember most scuba fins are designed to be worn with booties underneath. SNORKELS: Most snorkels have a purge valve in the bottom. This is to allow any water that enters your snorkel to drain out without needing a huge puff. Other features include 'floppy' sections allowing a more comfortable fit and dry top with will help protect the top of your snorkel from wave splashes during long swims. BOOTIES: Most booties have zips built into them to make it easier to put them on. When trying booties on donot have socks on unless you intend to wear them when in the water. Boots should fit snugly however it is better to have slightly big boots rather than small as the fin will hold them in place. Boots that are to small may lead to foot cramps. These are only a small sample of the sets we have in store. Please feel free to drop by to see our full range. Each item is linked to its own page for bigger image.
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